Abstract

This paper contributes to the development of effective survey and analysis processes to identify and better understand the relationship between experiential components, tourists' environmental perceptions and behavioural outcomes resulting from wildlife tourism experiences. Results are presented in relation to a means-end data collection and qualitative analysis process involving the use of Leximancer, comparison to a recently developed ecotourism model, and participants' intentional behaviour changes resulting from a captive dolphin experience. The results demonstrate cognitive links between the perceived benefits of environmental awareness, values of appreciation and global perspectives of personal significance leading to insights of environmental concern and responsibility. These are linked to intentional post-experience environmental behaviours involving lifestyle changes. This knowledge is essential to develop and evaluate tourism programs that inspire participants' concern and positive environmental behaviours, and addresses a gap in the tourism literature comparing captive and 'natural' wildlife interactions with regard to their contribution to environmental sustainability.